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Defense Review had already seen the promotional videos on HULC, but it was a whole different thing to see it working and with a FN M240B MMG/GPMG mounted on an Aliens-style swing-arm-type weapons mount. It would seem logical that this swing-arm mount will eventually employ a Steadicam-type weapon stabilization system, perhaps made by a company like Equipois.

The strangest thing was seeing the system just sitting there on a hard case without a human being inside it. It looked like a mechanical person just relaxing at the show!

The following information on the Lockheed Martin HULC exoskeleton system comes directly from the company's website:

"Dismounted warfighters often carry heavy combat loads that increase the stress on the body leading to potential injuries. With a HULC exoskeleton, these heavy loads are transferred to the ground through powered titanium legs without loss of mobility.

The HULC is a completely un-tethered, hydraulic-powered anthropomorphic exoskeleton that provides users with the ability to carry loads of up to 200 pounds for extended periods of time and over all terrains. Its flexible design allows for deep squats, crawls and upper-body lifting.

An onboard micro-computer ensures the exoskeleton moves in concert with the individual. The HULC’s modularity allows for major components to be swapped out in the field. Additionally, its unique power-saving design allows the user to operate on battery power for extended missions. When battery power is low, the HULC system continues to support the loads and does not restrict mobility. HULC can also support a maximum load, with or without power.

Lockheed Martin is also exploring exoskeleton designs for industrial use and a wider variety of military mission specific applications."

About David Crane

David Crane started publishing online in 2001. Since that time, governments, military organizations, Special Operators (i.e. professional trigger pullers), agencies, and civilian tactical shooters the world over have come to depend on Defense Review as the authoritative source of news and information on "the latest and greatest" in the field of military defense and tactical technology and hardware, including tactical firearms, ammunition, equipment, gear, and training.

One comment

Can that swing arm weapon mount lift up?
I”ve heard some information that this exoskeleton cannot sprint while wearing it, because the motor or something can’t accelerate that fast. Is that true?
Your military news always made me exciting, thanks for these information.